**Passengers Flying Jet2 and EasyJet Warned to Double-Check Hand Luggage Fine Print**
Travellers planning to fly with Jet2 or EasyJet are being urged to pay close attention to their airline’s hand luggage policies or risk facing unexpectedly high extra charges. As holidaymakers look forward to their summer getaways, both airlines have re-emphasised the importance of adhering not only to overall size restrictions for carry-on bags, but also to a detail often overlooked: the measurements must include all protruding handles, wheels, and even straps.
While each airline establishes its own guidelines for hand luggage, holidaymakers often assume that as long as their suitcase appears compact, it will sail through the boarding process. However, recent reminders from two of the UK’s leading low-cost carriers suggest many may find themselves caught out at check-in, especially if the full dimensions — including the bulk added by wheels and handles — haven’t been considered.
EasyJet’s cabin baggage policy, for example, allows every traveller to bring one “under-seat bag” — free of charge — provided it can be stowed below the seat in front. The airline specifies a maximum size of 45x36x20cm for this item, and while there is no formal weight restriction, adherence to the dimensions is strictly enforced. Any small bag must fit completely within the airline’s sizer gauge, with no elements – not even a single handle or wheel – sticking out. Failing this test means passengers may have to pay an additional £48, either at the check-in desk or directly at the boarding gate, for their non-compliant bag.
Airline staff will often request travellers to insert their hand luggage into a metal sizer both at the check-in counter and just before boarding. Even if the main compartment fits but handles or wheels protrude, the fee is still applied, leaving many caught unawares and forced to pay. EasyJet has reinforced its message recently, advising passengers to carefully measure their bags at home before arrival and to ensure they include all additional features in their calculations.
Those wishing to avoid unpleasant airport surprises are also being encouraged by EasyJet to add an additional or larger cabin bag in advance using their online account. If booked in advance, larger cabin bags (up to 56x45x25cm) can be brought aboard, provided passengers select the appropriate fare or add the option during booking. The popular Antler Clifton Cabin Bag, fitting within these enlarged measurements, has been cited by the airline as a suitable example.
Jet2, another favourite for British holidaymakers, is equally clear-cut in its rules. Each Jet2 passenger may bring one piece of hand luggage free of charge, stipulating that it must not exceed 10kg in weight and must be no larger than 56x45x25cm. Again, these dimensions must account for any handles, wheels, or additional extras built into the suitcase.
The implications of these detailed requirements are significant, especially as many popular travel bags may technically comply in terms of their main compartment size but breach the limits when outlying elements are measured. In a climate of increasing charges for everything from seat selection to food, falling foul of luggage rules can be a costly mistake for families and solo travellers alike.
This move by airlines to strictly enforce dimensional limits is seen by some as a response to flight delays caused by overcrowded cabin bins and the need for quicker boarding. Nevertheless, consumer groups argue that clearer communication is required from airlines during the booking process so that passengers aren’t caught out — especially since some bag manufacturers advertise their products as “cabin approved” without always factoring in the final protrusions.
For those setting off on their summer holidays, the message is clear: double-check the entirety of your hand luggage, not just the main case, but also every wheel, handle, and external pocket. Measure it precisely at home before travel, and refer directly to your airline’s up-to-date guidelines.
With the potential to save both money and stress on the day of travel, this minor detail could make all the difference at the airport. As the holiday season ramps up, a little preparation and careful reading of airline policies can ensure a smoother start to your escape.